The state’s new ethics watchdog is off to a pretty rocky start — ethically speaking.

An upstate newspaper published news that the Joint Commission on Public Ethics has launched a preliminary inquiry into Senate Deputy Majority Leader Tom Libous (R-Binghamton).

Nothing wrong with the inquiry — indeed, it’s hardly surprising.

What is surprising — and unacceptable, not to mention in all likelihood illegal — is that word of the probe was made public.

The case stems from testimony at a recent corruption trial in Yonkers, at which a witness testified that his law firm was promised government contracts in return for hiring Libous’ son at a hefty salary.

A political rival, reading of the testimony, filed a complaint with JCOPE. And as we noted at the time, “it certainly bears keeping a watchful eye on Clan Libous.”

Libous hasn’t been charged — there’s no evidence a criminal investigation is even under way — and he denies any impropriety.

But the commission’s actions are — by law — meant to remain confidential.

Especially since the investigation is at its most preliminary stage: Libous received official notification that he’s the subject of a complaint; JCOPE then has 45 days to decide whether to pursue a full probe.

What makes this especially troubling is that this is JCOPE’s first real investigation since being formed this year — and that the commission is very much under the baleful eye of Andrew Cuomo.

The governor’s longtime associate and former inspector general, Ellen Biben, was named executive director in a secret vote.

Such ham-handedness raises troubling questions about whether JCOPE is going to be a legitimate investigating body — Heaven knows Albany needs one — or a political weapon.

Just three months ago, recall, the Cuomo administration deputized the entire IG’s office staff to examine the tax records of any state employee, including legislators.

With such power must go accountability.

If JCOPE is to be nothing more than a tool — well, Albany has had enough experience with that sort of thing.